SPAC unveils classical programming for 2013

SARATOGA SPRINGS -- Saratoga Performing Arts Center on Thursday unveiled its classical programming for 2013 that includes one week of New York City Ballet and two other ballet companies.

The schedule opens June 29-30 with the Freihofer's Saratoga Jazz Festival and runs through August, which includes the Philadelphia Orchestra and Saratoga Chamber Music Festival.

SPAC also announced that it will break even financially in 2012, its eighth straight year of operating in the black.

"In 2013, more than 700 classical artists will be part of our season and more than 130 masterpieces will be performed live," SPAC President and Executive Director Marcia White said in a statement.

However, next year marks the first time ever that the financially-plagued New York City Ballet will have a one-week Saratoga residency. The dance company lost $1.1 million and saw attendance drop 4 percent at SPAC this year.

In addition, the ballet cost SPAC more money this year than it did in 2008, when it still had a three-week summer season. One cause was the high cost of producing elaborate performances of "Romeo & Juliet." Trucking, lighting and labor were some of the main expenses.

Ticket sales pay for less than half the ballet and orchestra's residencies. SPAC makes up the difference with membership fees, corporate sponsorships and individual gifts.

SPAC Chairwoman Susan Philips Read has said she would like to get the ballet back for two weeks beginning in 2014. Next year, two other companies will make up for New York City Ballet's shorter season. They are the National Ballet of Canada and Aspen Santa Fe Ballet.

Next Thursday, SPAC will make the first in a series of online programming announcements, called "Building a Season." Each week, a selection of artists, works and events that are part of next year's season will be announced at www.spac.org.

The website had more than 1 million visitors this year, highlighting the importance of modern electronic marketing strategies.

In addition to its website, SPAC will publicize the weekly announcements through digital channels, including Facebook, Twitter, email and its digital sign on Route 50.

"The format and timing of 'Building of a Season' encourages people to explore the breadth and depth of that artistry, which ultimately enhances appreciation of the programs they'll experience here at SPAC," White said. "In this digital age, the series is also a powerful tool for educating people about the classical performing arts, which is a key component of SPAC's mission."